Considering the fact that the 2011 playoffs re-seed after each round, the Detroit Red Wings can simply root for the other three series to keep going. Their veteran roster could benefit greatly from the break they’ll get from sweeping the Phoenix Coyotes in the first round.

There’s even some talk that Chris Osgood might be healthy enough to back up starting goalie Jimmy Howard, although that seems like more of a toss-up.

Here’s what Zetterberg and head coach Mike Babcock had to say about the health of those two forwards.

Zetterberg said he’ll be ready to dress after Friday’s practice, and coach Mike Babcock confirmed it, as the Wings completed a brisk workout before taking the rest of the weekend off.

“I’m feeling better than yesterday, and that’s all I can ask for,” said Zetterberg, who missed the entire first-round sweep of Phoenix because of a left knee sprain. “As long as it goes that way, it’ll be good.”

Franzen (sore ankle), who didn’t play in Wednesday’s deciding game against Phoenix, didn’t practice but Babcock said Franzen will be ready to go for the next round.

“We’ll give him as much time as (needed) to make sure he’s feeling good,” Babcock said. “I’m not one bit concerned.”

The Red Wings were dangerous enough a few strides from 100 percent, but their offense could be in high gear with their veterans well rested and Zetterberg/Franzen back in the mix. It sounds solid right now, but we’ll keep you up to date about their progress.

They’ll be needed from here on out. Albeit the Wings play a great game of ‘revolving impact player’, it will take some pressure off Datsyuk, and force some VERY hard line decisions for opponents.

Put your top defenders on Datsuk…no Zetterberg…no Franzen…no Holmstrom…wait, Filpulla, no better cover Helm and Bertuzzi, oh, don’t forget Hudler, he can be dangerous, and what about that kid Abdelkader??? YIKES!!!

Barring any strange injuries, it will be the last you see of Modano though. He had a fair game, but not enough to think he’ll skate more profoundly than any of Detriots original playoff roster.
You starting taking that ‘sweet’ retirement a bit too early Mike. Should’ve been focused on the playoffs….. like all the other Red Wings.